IAs anyone who has been paying attention to the gaming industry this year knows, these are very unfortunate times for game developers. Thousands of jobs are being lost as companies cut costs, in-progress games are canceled, and award-winning studios close. The mood is furious and despondent.
“I’m so disappointed in the media I love,” one reader wrote in response to the recent newsletter. “We are deeply disappointed by the potential being wasted in the name of an even more grotesque level of profit-taking, not to mention the impact these job cuts will have on the people actually making the games,” he asked. “Do you see a path forward for developers to make great games on reasonable budgets and pay their staff a living wage? Some hope would be appreciated.”
One of the many tragic ironies of this year in gaming is that, alongside all the cuts, closures, and layoffs, there has been an unusual number of breakthrough successes. Unexpected hits like Helldivers 2, Palworld, Balatro, Manor Lords, and Hades II have shown that small and medium-sized game releases can still find success even in challenging times.
There have been numerous great indie games this year, such as Crow Country, Another Crab’s Treasure, Pacific Drive, and Harold Halibut, showcasing the diversity and creativity of the indie gaming scene. While corporate blockbuster game development faces challenges, smaller releases continue to thrive, offering hope for the future of the industry.
This week, I’m playing Animal Well, a game that exemplifies the excellence of small games where attention is paid to every detail. Despite the challenges in the gaming industry, there are always new and innovative experiences to enjoy. It’s a reminder that creativity and passion can lead to success, even in difficult times.
Source: www.theguardian.com
